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| - Quick Take
A social media post claims that drinking hot water in winter is harmful for health. We did the fact check and termed this claim as mostly false.
The Claim
A viral Instagram post claims that drinking hot water in winter can lead to several health issues, including ulcers, dry skin, dehydration, mouth burns, and sleep disturbances.
Fact Check
Can hot water consumption cause ulcers or stomach irritation?
Not really. Drinking hot water at safe temperatures does not cause ulcers or stomach irritation. Ulcers usually result from bacterial infections (like Helicobacter pylori) or prolonged use of certain medications (e.g., NSAIDs). Drinking water that is excessively hot can irritate the stomach lining temporarily, but this is unlikely to lead to ulcers. In fact, drinking warm water in moderation is often recommended for soothing digestion, and research suggests it can support overall digestive health.
We spoke with Dr Swati Dave, PhD in Food and Nutrition, for her insights on drinking hot water in winter. She says, “Drinking excessively hot water may irritate the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and could contribute to issues like acid reflux or discomfort in the stomach and intestines. While warm water is generally safe and beneficial, moderation is key. Starting the day with 1-2 glasses of lukewarm water is a good practice for overall hydration and digestion.”
There are also claims like warm water can boost immunity, which is not proven.
Does drinking hot water dry out the skin?
No, drinking hot water doesn’t directly cause dry skin. Dry skin (xeroderma) often happens because of things like very hot showers, harsh soaps, cold weather, or low humidity. It can also be linked to conditions like eczema, diabetes, or thyroid issues, as well as dehydration or certain medications. Staying hydrated, using gentle soaps, following a good winter skincare routine, and protecting your skin from harsh conditions can all help keep your skin healthy. Drinking hot water in moderation can support hydration, which is good for skin health, but drinking it too hot or in excess might have indirect effects.
We reached out to Dr Ekansh Shekhar, Dermatologist, Cosmetologist, Trichologist, and Aesthetic Medicine Consultant in Lucknow, for his expert insights on the effects of drinking hot water on the skin. He stated, “Drinking hot water in moderation does not dry out your skin. Skin dryness is usually caused by external factors like cold weather and low humidity, not the temperature of the water you drink. Staying hydrated, whether with warm or room-temperature water, is key to keeping your skin healthy.”
Can hot water burn the mouth or throat?
Yes, very hot water can cause burns. Drinking water that’s too hot can harm the sensitive tissues in your mouth, throat, and oesophagus, leading to discomfort or even burns. To stay safe, it’s best to drink water that’s lukewarm or just slightly warm – it’s much gentler and soothing.
Does drinking hot water lead to dehydration?
No, drinking hot water doesn’t cause dehydration. Dehydration happens when your body loses more water than it takes in. Whether you drink warm or cold water, it helps keep you hydrated. The idea that hot water lowers hydration levels isn’t true. However, if the water is extremely hot, it could make you sweat, which might cause a temporary loss of fluids, but that can easily be fixed by drinking more water.
Can drinking hot water damage taste buds?
Possibly, but only if the water is really hot. Drinking water that’s too hot (over 60°C) can temporarily damage your taste buds, making them less sensitive, much like when you burn your mouth with hot food or drinks. Drinking water at a comfortable temperature helps avoid this problem.
Does hot water affect sleep patterns?
Unlikely, unless you drink a lot of water right before bed. Warm water is actually often recommended before sleep to help relax the body. However, drinking too much water too close to bedtime can lead to frequent trips to the bathroom, which might disrupt your sleep. There’s no evidence to suggest that hot water specifically affects sleep negatively.
THIP Media Take
The claim that drinking hot water in winter is harmful for health is mostly false. Drinking hot water at safe temperatures is generally good for you and poses little risk. Just avoid drinking water that’s too hot to prevent burns or irritation, and make sure to stay balanced with your hydration for overall health.
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